"This was an unprovoked attack on an innocent man. Tarsen Nahar aka Cookie was well known as one of the 'street drinkers' that frequented the area. Mr O'Connor's actions showed his total disregard for this vulnerable section of the community.

"This sentence reinforces the MPS's commitment to protecting all members of society regardless of their background. On behalf of the family and investigating team I would like to thank the witness's who came forward on Cookies behalf."

O'Connor was also sentenced to nine months in prison, to run concurrently, for ABH on Mr Nahar, two weeks before the murder.